The landscape of comedy and the entertainment industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, with the impact of the pandemic being felt in both positive and negative ways. In a recent episode of Variety’s “Strictly Business” podcast, Blair Kohan and Jason Heyman, UTA board members and partners, delved into the evolving business of comedy and the challenges and opportunities it presents.
Kohan and Heyman, long-time colleagues who understand each other’s strengths and rhythms, discussed the shifting dynamics of the comedy industry. They acknowledged the struggles faced by traditional adult comedies at the box office and the scarcity of sitcoms on network television. Despite these challenges, they highlighted the abundance of talent and the multitude of platforms available for showcasing comedy content.
The duo emphasized the importance of live comedy experiences, noting that people crave the communal aspect of laughing together in a shared space. They also discussed the changing landscape of network TV and the opportunities it presents for comedy stars to explore alternative avenues for creative expression.
One notable trend discussed by Kohan and Heyman is the rise of social media platforms as a launching pad for comedy talent. They mentioned examples of comedians like Rachel Sennott leveraging platforms like Instagram and TikTok to cultivate a loyal fan base and gain more creative control over their projects when working with mainstream Hollywood.
Heyman, known for his association with comedy heavyweights like Will Ferrell, expressed concern about the declining number of comedy movies making it to the theatrical box office. He stressed the importance of taking risks and creating content that resonates with audiences, especially the younger demographic who may not prioritize going to the theater for R-rated comedies.
Overall, Kohan and Heyman’s conversation shed light on the evolving landscape of comedy and the need for adaptability and innovation in the industry. As the traditional models of comedy production continue to shift, embracing new platforms and approaches may be key to sustaining the laughter and entertainment that comedy brings to audiences worldwide.
[“Strictly Business” is a weekly podcast by Variety featuring discussions with industry leaders about the business of media and entertainment. New episodes are released every Wednesday on platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and more.]
